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Subject: Internal Security

  • Inside the Digital World of Cookies

    cookies

    Central Idea

    • In the online world, digital cookies hold a significant role, contributing to personalization and user convenience.
    • These unobtrusive lines of code, quietly stored on devices during website visits, shape the online experiences we encounter.

    Understanding How Cookies Work

    • Cookies as Digital Keys: Think of cookies as keys to an exclusive club. Just as a club bouncer recognizes regular patrons, cookies remember your login details on websites, eliminating the need for constant re-authentication.
    • Enhanced Online Shopping: Websites like Amazon leverage cookies to remember your past interactions, offering tailored product recommendations and an intimate shopping experience.
    • Persistent Shopping Carts: Online shopping carts, fueled by cookies, ensure your selections remain intact even after you leave the site, simplifying the checkout process.
    • Personalized Advertising: Platforms like Facebook and Google utilize cookies to track online behaviour, serving ads aligned with your preferences.

    Types of Cookies

    • Session Cookies: Temporary, session cookies function as post-it notes for websites, existing only in your computer’s memory during your browsing session.
    • Persistent Cookies: Comparable to bookmarks, persistent cookies remain on your device after your browsing session, retaining login information and preferences.
    • Secure Cookies: Sent over encrypted connections, secure cookies are employed for sensitive data like login credentials.
    • Third-Party Cookies: Originating from domains other than the visited site, third-party cookies serve tracking and advertising functions, offering both benefits and potential intrusiveness.

    Multifaceted Uses of Cookies

    • Digital ID Cards: Cookies facilitate user authentication, allowing websites to recognize and keep you logged in.
    • Personalization: They remember your preferences, such as language choices and website themes.
    • Persistent Shopping Carts: Items added online remain accessible upon your return.
    • Analytics Data: Cookies enable website owners to gather valuable data about user interactions for improvements and customization.
    • Targeted Advertising: Advertisers employ cookies to display ads aligning with your interests, enhancing online shopping experiences.

    Challenges Associated with Cookies

    • Privacy Concerns: Cookies can track online behaviour, occasionally infringing upon digital privacy.
    • Security Risks: Inadequately secured cookies may expose personal information to cybercriminals.
    • User Consent Era: Privacy regulations necessitate websites to seek user consent before deploying specific cookie types, resulting in pop-ups and prompts.
    • Third-Party Cookie Debates: Concerns about third-party cookies have led web browsers to limit their usage for user privacy protection.
    • Data Deluge: The multitude of cookies can potentially overwhelm your browser, causing a sluggish web experience.

    Conclusion

    • Complex yet Sweet: Cookies enhance online experiences but also bring privacy and security challenges. As the digital landscape evolves, so will the use and regulation of cookies.
    • Analogous to Real Cookies: Just like warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, digital cookies add a personalized touch to your online adventures, even if they occasionally leave behind a few crumbs.

  • AFSPA Extension in Manipur: A Delicate Balancing Act

    afspa manipur

    Central Idea

    • The Manipur government has announced the extension of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) for another 6 months across the entire state.
    • However, it excludes 19 police stations in seven districts of the Imphal Valley.

    Why such move?

    • Gradual Withdrawal: Since 2022, AFSPA has been progressively withdrawn from the valley districts, primarily inhabited by the Meitei community.
    • Resurgence of Insurgent Groups: There has been a resurgence of insurgent groups, largely operating from Myanmar, advocating for Manipur’s secession from India.
    • Ethnic Violence: Ethnic violence between the Meitei and tribal Kuki communities has claimed at least 175 lives since May 3, making it the deadliest conflict in Manipur since 1999.

    AFSPA History in Manipur

    • Decades of AFSPA: AFSPA has been applicable in Manipur since 1981, impacting both the valley and hill districts.
    • Gradual Withdrawal: The Act’s provisions have been gradually withdrawn from the valley districts over the years, signifying evolving security dynamics.

    What is Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958?

    • Armed Forces Special Powers Act, to put it simply, gives armed forces the power to maintain public order in “disturbed areas.”
    • AFSPA gives armed forces the authority use force or even open fire after giving due warning if they feel a person is in contravention of the law.
    • The Act further provides that if “reasonable suspicion exists”, the armed forces can also arrest a person without a warrant; enter or search premises without a warrant; and ban the possession of firearms.

    A Backgrounder

    • The AFSPA, 1958 came into force in the context of insurgency in the North-eastern States decades ago.
    • It provides “special power” to the Armed Forces applies to the Army, the Air Force and the Central Paramilitary forces etc.
    • It has been long contested debate whether the “special powers” granted under AFSPA gives total immunity to the armed forces for any action taken by them.

    What are the Special Powers?

    • Power to use force: including opening fire, even to the extent of causing death if prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more persons or carrying arms and weapons, etc are in force in the disturbed area;
    • Power to destroy structures: used as hide-outs, training camps, or as a place from which attacks are or likely to be launched, etc;
    • Power to arrest: without warrant and to use force for the purpose;
    • Power to enter and search premises: without a warrant to make arrest or recovery of hostages, arms and ammunition and stolen property etc.

    Who can declare/notify such areas?

    • The Central Government or the Governor of the State or administrator of the Union Territory can declare the whole or part of the State or Union Territory as a disturbed area.

  • AFSPA likely to end from Assam

    afspa

    Central Idea: Assam CM has stated that the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) is likely to be completely lifted from the state by the end of the year due to a significant improvement in the law and order situation.

    What is Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958?

    • Armed Forces Special Powers Act, to put it simply, gives armed forces the power to maintain public order in “disturbed areas.”
    • AFSPA gives armed forces the authority use force or even open fire after giving due warning if they feel a person is in contravention of the law.
    • The Act further provides that if “reasonable suspicion exists”, the armed forces can also arrest a person without a warrant; enter or search premises without a warrant; and ban the possession of firearms.

    A Backgrounder

    • The AFSPA, 1958 came into force in the context of insurgency in the North-eastern States decades ago.
    • It provides “special power” to the Armed Forces applies to the Army, the Air Force and the Central Paramilitary forces etc.
    • It has been long contested debate whether the “special powers” granted under AFSPA gives total immunity to the armed forces for any action taken by them.

    What are the Special Powers?

    • Power to use force: including opening fire, even to the extent of causing death if prohibitory orders banning assembly of five or more persons or carrying arms and weapons, etc are in force in the disturbed area;
    • Power to destroy structures: used as hide-outs, training camps, or as a place from which attacks are or likely to be launched, etc;
    • Power to arrest: without warrant and to use force for the purpose;
    • Power to enter and search premises: without a warrant to make arrest or recovery of hostages, arms and ammunition and stolen property etc.

    Who can declare/notify such areas?

    • The Central Government or the Governor of the State or administrator of the Union Territory can declare the whole or part of the State or Union Territory as a disturbed area.

    Issues with AFSPA

    • Power to kill: Section 4 of the Act granted officers the authority to “take any action” even to the extent to cause the death.
    • Misconduct by Armed Forces: The issue of violation of human rights by actions of armed forces came under the consideration of the Committee on Amendments to Criminal Law (popularly known as Justice Verma Committee) set up in 2012. It observed that- in conflict zones, legal protection for women was neglected.
    • Autocracy: The reality is that there is no evidence of any action being taken against any officer of the armed forces or paramilitary forces for their excesses.

    Recommendations to repeal AFSPA

    • Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy Commission: The 2004 Committee headed by Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy, the content of which has never officially been revealed by the Government, recommended that AFSPA be repealed.
    • ARC II: The Administrative Reforms Commission in its 5th Report on ‘Public Order’ had also recommended that AFSPA be repealed.

    Voices for repeal

    • Human rights violations: The repeal of AFSPA is necessary not just for restoring constitutional sanity, but also as a way of acknowledging the dark history of our conduct in Nagaland.
    • Need for ensuring individual dignity: The political incorporation of Nagaland (and all other areas where this law applies) will be set back if the guarantees of the individual dignity of the Indian Constitution are not extended.
    • Not state of exception: We often describe AFSPA in terms of a “state of exception”. But this theoretical term is misleading. How can a law that has been in virtually continuous existence since 1958 be described as an “exception”.
    • Lack of human empathy: At the heart of AFSPA is a profound mutilation of human empathy.

    Conclusion

    • To bring in lasting peace in the North East, the government needs to avoid the trap of watered-down peace accords.
    • While the move to withdraw AFSPA is welcome, it needs to be gradually erased.
    • For that, changes in the ground situation would be crucial. Mere smoke signals or drum-beating can never do the job.

     

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  • Defence Ministry nods to buy Pralay Ballistic Missiles

    pralay

    Central Idea

    • The Defense Ministry has granted approval for the acquisition of a regiment of ‘Pralay’ ballistic missiles, earmarked for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).
    • It is the first time that a ballistic missile will be inducted into the services for conventional operations.

    Pralay Missile: Key Features

    Strike Range 150 to 500 kilometers
    Payload Capacity 350 kg to 700 kg conventional warhead
    Warhead Variability High explosive preformed fragmentation warheads, penetration-cum-blast (PCB) warheads, runaway denial penetration submunitions (RDPS)
    Classification Quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile
    Maneuverability Mid-flight trajectory alteration capability
    Propulsion Solid propellant rocket motor with advanced guidance systems
    Global Comparisons Comparable to China’s Dong Feng 12 and Russia’s Iskander missile
    Development History Development was initiated around 2015, with significant progress during the tenure of General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Army Staff

     

    Strategic significance

    • Longest Range: ‘Pralay’ will emerge as the longest-range surface-to-surface missile within the Army’s inventory.
    • Strategic Role: ‘Pralay,’ in conjunction with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will play a central role in India’s planned Rocket Force, augmenting the nation’s strategic posture.
    • Imperative: China and Pakistan have already deployed ballistic missiles for tactical purposes, prompting India’s acquisition of ‘Pralay’ missiles.

  • C-295 Transport Aircraft: All you need to know

    c-195

    Central Idea

    • In a significant milestone, the Indian Air Force (IAF) received its inaugural C-295 transport aircraft during a ceremony held in Seville, Spain.
    • IAF’s fleet of C-295s is set to become the largest globally, with an initial order for 56 aircraft.

    About C-295

    • The C-295MW is a transport aircraft with a carrying capacity ranging from 5 to 10 tonnes.
    • It can accommodate up to 71 troops or 49 para-troopers, offering significant flexibility.
    • The aircraft boasts a maximum cruise speed of 260 knots, ensuring rapid deployment.
    • Its exceptional low-level flight characteristics enable tactical missions, even at slow speeds as low as 110 knots.
    • The C-295 is equipped with a rear ramp door, facilitating swift troop and cargo deployments.
    • Each aircraft is outfitted with an indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd and Bharat Dynamics Limited.
    • Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127G turboprop engines propel the aircraft.
    • The C-295 exhibits short take-off and landing (STOL) capabilities, enabling the use of unprepared airstrips.

    Significance of the aircraft

    • India’s entry into aircraft production will place it among a select group of nations with the capability to manufacture C-295 aircraft.
    • This group includes countries like the US, UK, Russia, France, Italy, Spain, Ukraine, Brazil, China, and Japan.
    • The project will stimulate India’s aerospace ecosystem, involving numerous MSMEs across the country in the manufacturing of aircraft components.
    • This includes areas of strategic importance, such as the border with China and the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago.

  • Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (2023-37)

    maritime

    Central Idea

    • The Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (MIPP) 2023-37 was unveiled at the Naval Commanders Conference.
    • It signifies a forward-looking strategy aimed at fostering sustainable maritime architecture.

    About MIPP

    • Aligned with the overarching vision of the PM Gati Shakti project, this comprehensive plan was introduced by the Minister of State for Defence.
    • The plan’s objectives span over the next 15 years and strive to synergize the Navy’s infrastructure requirements in a dynamic and encompassing model.

    Features of the MIPP

    1. Synchronizing Infrastructure Needs:
    • The MIPP 2023-37 envisions an integrated approach to address the Navy’s infrastructure requirements.
    • It aims to harmonize naval infrastructure development over the next 15 years through a meticulously designed perspective plan.
    1. Compliance with Broader Policies:
    • The plan adheres to the broader policy directives of the PM Gati Shakti Project, Disaster Resilience, and Transition to Net Zero, among others.
    • Sustainability and compliance with national policy priorities are key principles underpinning the plan’s formulation.
    1. Modernization Efforts:
    • To accommodate technological advancements and promote self-reliance, the revised “IRS Rules and Regulations Handbook for Construction and Classification of Naval Combatants” was introduced.
    • This handbook reflects the naval shipbuilding industry’s growth and aligns with the philosophy of ‘AatmaNirbharta’ (self-reliance).
    1. Transformational Initiatives:
    • The release of the “Family Logbook for Defence Civilian Personnel of the Indian Navy” serves as a milestone in maintaining personal records efficiently.
    • The launch of the “Electronic Service Document Project” is poised to revolutionize HR record-keeping within the Navy.

    Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims

    • PM Gati Shakti Project: A government initiative aimed at enhancing infrastructure connectivity and development across various sectors, contributing to economic growth and national development.
    • Indian Register for Shipping (IRS): An organization responsible for ship classification and certification in India, ensuring that ships comply with international standards for safety and environmental performance.
    • Blue Economy: Economic activities related to oceans and water bodies, including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and shipping, which contribute significantly to a nation’s economy.
    • Geoeconomics: The study of how economic factors and policies influence international relations and geopolitics.
    • Geopolitics: The study of political and territorial issues influenced by geographical factors and international power dynamics.

    Conclusion

    • The Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan 2023-37 stands as a blueprint for India’s maritime progress, exemplifying the commitment to self-reliance, sustainability, and modernization.
    • With a focus on comprehensive development and adherence to national policies, the plan charts a course towards a stronger, more resilient naval infrastructure.
    • It aligns with the evolving security landscape and the broader objectives of the nation.

  • LCA Tejas successfully test-fires Astra BVR Air-to-Air Missile

    astra

    Central Idea

    • The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has achieved another milestone with the successful test firing of the indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile called Astra.

    Indigenous Marvel of Astra Missile

    • The Astra missile is an indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
    • The missile is intended for use by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.

    Purpose and Capability

    • Astra is designed to engage and eliminate high-speed, agile aerial targets in air combat scenarios.
    • It boasts advanced air combat capabilities and can engage multiple high-performance targets simultaneously.

    Aircraft Integration

    • Astra is integrated with various aircraft platforms, including the Su-30MKI fighter jet, Mirage 2000 multi-role combat fighters, Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA), MiG-29 and MiG-21 Bison fighter jets, and the Indian Navy’s Sea Harrier jet fighter.

    Features and Specifications

    (A) Design:

    • The missile is designed for high agility, accuracy, and reliability, ensuring a high single-shot kill probability (SSKP).
    • Astra measures approximately 3.8 meters in length and has a diameter of 178mm.
    • It has a launch weight of around 160 kilograms.

    (B) Advanced Variants:

    • DRDO is working on developing an advanced variant called Astra Mk-II.
    • Astra Mk-II is expected to have an extended range of 160 kilometers.

    (C) Guidance and Warhead:

    • The missile utilizes dual-mode guidance for accurate target tracking.
    • It is equipped with a high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead for effective engagement against threats.

    (D) Propulsion and Performance:

    • The Astra missile is powered by a smokeless, single-stage, solid fuel propulsion system.
    • It is capable of achieving launch speeds ranging from Mach 0.4 to Mach 2.

    (E) Launch Range and Agility:

    • The missile’s launch range is approximately 80 kilometers.
    • It can execute maneuvers with up to 40 g turns near sea level while engaging moving targets.

    Collaborative Development

    • Astra Mk-III, a variant of the missile, is being developed in collaboration with Russia.
    • This variant employs advanced solid fuel ducted ramjet (SFDR) engine technology.

    Back2Basics: LCA Tejas

    lca

    • Origin: The LCA Tejas is an indigenous light combat aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
    • Purpose: LCA Tejas is designed as a multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.
    • Variants: There are two main variants of LCA Tejas:
    1. LCA Tejas Mark-I: Developed for the Indian Air Force, it is a single-seat, single-engine aircraft.
    2. LCA Tejas Mark-I Navy: Designed for the Indian Navy, it is adapted for carrier operations with features like reinforced landing gear and arrestor hook.
    • Design and Features:
    1. LCA Tejas features a delta wing design for enhanced maneuverability and stability.
    2. The aircraft incorporates advanced avionics, glass cockpit, and digital fly-by-wire controls.
    3. It is equipped with modern radar systems, electronic warfare systems, and weapons integration capabilities.
    • Powerplant: LCA Tejas is powered by a single engine, the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 turbofan engine.
    • Armament: The aircraft can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including missiles, bombs, and rockets.
    • Performance:
    1. The aircraft has a maximum speed of around Mach 1.8 (1,390 mph or 2,240 km/h).
    2. Its operational range is approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles).
    3. LCA Tejas has a service ceiling of around 50,000 feet (15,240 meters).
    • Induction and Service:
    1. The LCA Tejas Mark-I was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in July 2016.
    2. The aircraft has participated in various national and international airshows, showcasing its capabilities.
    • Development and Challenges:
    1. The development of LCA Tejas faced several challenges, including technical and financial issues, leading to delays.
    2. However, the successful development and induction of the aircraft marked a significant achievement for India’s aerospace industry.

  • INS Vindhyagiri and Project 17A

    vindhyagiri

    Central Idea

    • President’s launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the final vessel in the Project 17A (Alpha) frigates series, marked a significant milestone for India’s maritime strength and self-reliance.
    • The launch of INS Vindhyagiri, the sixth vessel in the Project 17A Frigates series, carries forward India’s naval legacy.

    About INS Vindhyagiri

    • INS Vindhyagiri is the sixth ship of the Project 17A Frigates series, showcasing India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology and self-reliance.
    • After INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri, INS Vindhyagiri derives its name from a mountain range in Karnataka.
    • These frigates are a follow-on class of the Project 17 (Shivalik Class) Frigates, integrating improved stealth, advanced weapons, and cutting-edge sensors.
    • It is built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India.

    Key features

    • Employs a cutting-edge propulsion system enabling speeds of over 28 knots, ensuring rapid response and agility in various operational scenarios.
    • Equipped with state-of-the-art stealth features, enhancing its ability to operate discreetly and minimize detection.
    • Over 75% of the equipment and systems used are sourced from indigenous firms, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

    Back2Basics: Project 17A

    • Project 17 Alpha frigates (P-17A) were launched by the Indian Navy in 2019.
    • The first stealth ship launched was the Nilgiri, launched in 2019.
    • The project was launched to construct a series of stealth guided-missile frigates, which are currently being constructed by two companies:
    1. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) and
    2. Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE).
    • These guided-missile frigates have been constructed with a specific stealth design, which has radar-absorbent coatings and is low-observable which can make its approach undetectable for the enemies.
    • The new technology also reduces the infrared signals of the ship.

  • Places in news: Harami Nala

    harami nala

    Central Idea

    • Union Home Minister has visited the sensitive and strategically important ‘Harami Nala’ creek in the Kutch region of Gujarat, near the India-Pakistan border.
    • This channel, notorious for its historical connections to infiltrations, illegal activities, and maritime challenges, offers a glimpse into the complexities of border security and regional dynamics.

    About Harami Nala

    • High-Profile Attention: The spotlight on ‘Harami Nala’ has intensified with visits from prominent figures, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, underlining the strategic importance of Sir Creek Area.
    • Geographical Context: Situated at the Rajasthan border, ‘Harami Nala’ is a 22-kilometer tidal channel in Gujarat’s Kutch region, serving as a natural boundary between India and Pakistan.
    • Physical Traits: It carries water and sediment, inhabited by protected marine species. The water level and flow fluctuate based on weather conditions, spanning a stretch of twenty to twenty-five kilometres.

    Decoding the Name

    • Meaning behind the Name: Translated as the “rogue or treacherous channel,” the name ‘Harami Nala’ encapsulates the channel’s notoriety as a potential ingress point for infiltrators.
    • Historical Context: The channel’s reputation as an entry route for criminals, terrorists, and undesirable elements from Pakistan to India has led to the naming. Instances of infiltrations and discoveries of abandoned boats have reinforced its dubious repute.
    • Illegal Activities: The channel’s ecosystem, including prawns and other marine life, is exploited through illegal fishing. Despite its ecological significance, this practice remains a challenge.

    Harami Nala’s Historical Connections

    • Geostrategic Significance: The channel’s proximity to the coast and urban centers like Gujarat and Mumbai has made it an alluring route for potential infiltrators.
    • Terror Connection: Notably, Ajmal Kasab, a perpetrator of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, was believed to have entered India through Harami Nala, highlighting the channel’s strategic implications.

    Challenges and Complexities

    • Border Security: While Indian security efforts are robust, the channel remains a challenge due to its historical use for illicit activities.
    • Maritime Interplay: The confluence of maritime dynamics, security concerns, and border complexities underscores the intricate nature of the region.

  • Assam Rifles: Role, Controversies, and Historical Significance

    Assam Rifle

    Central Idea

    • Recent events in Manipur have brought the Assam Rifles (AR) into the spotlight, raising questions about their role, control, and functioning.
    • As India’s oldest paramilitary force with a rich history, the Assam Rifles’ unique structure and dual control have sparked debates over its jurisdiction and the ministries under which it operates.

    About Assam Rifles: A Unique Role

    • Central Armed Police Force: AR is one of six central armed police forces (CAPFs) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It safeguards Northeastern regions, the Indo-Myanmar border, and assists the Indian Army in maintaining law and order.
    • Operational Duality: Uniquely, AR operates under dual control: administrative control under MHA and operational control under the Indian Army. This sets it apart from other CAPFs.
    • Composition and Leadership: With over 63,000 personnel across 46 battalions, AR follows a regimented structure similar to the Indian Army. Its senior ranks are manned by Army officers, and the force is commanded by an Indian Army Lieutenant General.

    Historical Significance and Contributions:

    • Ancient Roots: Established in 1835, AR is India’s oldest paramilitary force. It originated as Cachar Levy and evolved into Assam Rifles, earning accolades for its service.
    • World Wars and Beyond: AR participated in World Wars and the Sino-Indian war of 1962. Its efforts in both global conflicts and anti-insurgency campaigns underline its diverse roles.
    • Versatility and Valor: AR’s combat role in World War II, counter-Japanese operations, and contribution to India’s peacekeeping missions in Sri Lanka speak to its versatility and bravery.

    Controversial Encounter in Manipur

    • Accusations and Escapes: Manipur Police filed an FIR against the AR, alleging hindrance in their duty. The AR is accused of allowing suspected Kuki militants to evade capture. A video showing the tense exchange highlights concerns of collusion.
    • Voices of Discontent: Demands to remove AR from Manipur have arisen, with the Meira Paibis demanding their exit and the state’s BJP writing to the Prime Minister, alleging bias. These events underscore the complexity of AR’s presence in the region.

    Tensions and Accusations

    • Recent Incident: A clash occurred when Assam Rifles vehicles hindered state police personnel from Meitei-dominated Bishnupur district from entering a Kuki-Zomi territory. Allegations arose that the Assam Rifles’ actions enabled suspected Kuki militants, accused of killing three Meitei men, to escape.
    • Perceptions of Bias: Some members of the Meitei community perceive the Assam Rifles as favoring the Kuki-Zomi community. These perceptions, along with allegations of inaction during conflicts, have further strained relations.
    • Protests and Demands: Meira Paibis, women activists from the Meitei community, staged protests demanding the removal of Assam Rifles from Manipur. They claim that Indian security forces are being used against the Meiteis.
    • Suspicion over Collusion: Meitei activists question how suspected militants managed to cross the buffer zone and commit the killings. They criticize the perceived inaction of Assam Rifles personnel during attacks by the Kuki-Zomi.
    • Longstanding Grievances: Beyond the current conflict, Meiteis raise concerns about illegal immigration from Myanmar. They point to the Assam Rifles’ historical responsibility for the Indo-Myanmar border and alleged inaction.

    Historical Strain with AFSPA

    • Historical Tensions: Assam Rifles has faced strained relations with Manipur’s residents, particularly during counter-insurgency operations under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).
    • Symbolic Resistance: The 2004 incident where 12 Meitei women protested naked in front of the Assam Rifles Headquarters reflected the deep-rooted grievances and tensions present in the region.

    Debate over Control

    • Tug of War: Both the MHA and Ministry of Defence (MoD) desire full control over AR. MHA argues for comprehensive border-guarding coordination, while the Army believes in maintaining the current system, which has worked well.
    • Past Proposals: In 2013 and 2019, discussions were held to merge AR with BSF and ITBP, respectively. The Army’s desire for control has led to ongoing deliberations.

    Conclusion

    • The Assam Rifles embody a legacy of service, transcending decades and challenges.
    • As the debate over control continues, the AR’s role as protectors of borders and preservers of history remains unwavering, a testament to their resilience and valor.